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Introduction
A federal complaint alleges that Jey González-Díaz jumped overboard from Rhapsody of the Seas while docked at the Port of San Juan, Puerto Rico, in an attempt to avoid repaying more than US$16,000 in gambling debt to Royal Caribbean International. The bizarre incident occurred on August 31, 2025, as the ship concluded its itinerary from Barbados.
Details of the Incident
Jump and Recovery:
- Around 9:15 a.m., during U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspections, González-Díaz entered the water near the pier.
- He was later brought ashore by a person on a jet ski and located near the Puerto Rico Capitol Building.
- CBP agents apprehended him carrying US$14,600 in cash, two mobile phones, and five forms of identification.
Identification Issues:
- One of the seized IDs bore the name Jeremy Omar González-Díaz, who was reported to be in federal detention earlier in 2025.
- Jey González-Díaz claimed this was his brother’s identity, though the documents raised questions about fraud or misrepresentation.
Financial and Legal Context:
- Royal Caribbean reported that González-Díaz owed the cruise line US$16,710.24, primarily from casino and gaming expenditures accrued during the voyage.
- Authorities further alleged he failed to declare the currency he carried because he believed reporting rules or duties would apply.
- After arrest, he was charged with evading federal currency reporting requirements.
Legal Proceedings:
- The defendant was released on bail following his detention.
- If convicted, he faces up to five years in prison, a fine of up to US$250,000, or both.
- The case is being handled in federal court under U.S. maritime and customs jurisdiction.
Broader Implications:
- The case underscores ongoing concerns with cruise ship casinos and the financial disputes that can arise from onboard gambling.
- It also highlights the unusual nature of overboard incidents tied not to accidents or health emergencies, but alleged criminal intent and financial evasion.